For users of the Windows 10 operating system, the ability to customize the Taskbar was a familiar and cherished feature. However, this functionality was notably absent in Windows 11 for an extended period. In a recent development, Microsoft has announced the forthcoming introduction of comprehensive support for Taskbar and Start Menu customization, set to roll out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel over the next few weeks.
Taskbar Customization Features
The upcoming enhancements will allow users to reposition the Taskbar to any side of the screen—top, bottom, left, or right. This flexibility will enable a more personalized user experience, as individuals can also adjust icon alignment according to their preferences. Options will include:
- Top-aligned
- Center-aligned
- Left-aligned
- Right-aligned
To access these settings, users can navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors. Additionally, a new feature will introduce smaller icons and a more discreet Taskbar presence, catering to those who wish to optimize their screen space.
Revamped Start Menu Customization
In tandem with the Taskbar updates, Windows Insiders will also be testing a preview of a redesigned Start Menu customization initiative. This effort aims to provide users with greater control over how the Start Menu behaves. Key changes include:
- The option to select between smaller and larger Start sizes.
- The ability to independently hide or show sections such as Pinned, Recent, and All.
- An option to remove the user’s name and profile photo for enhanced privacy during screen sharing or presentations.
Previously, such customizations were not feasible, as Windows 11 initially launched with a uniform Start Menu appearance across all builds. Furthermore, Microsoft is decoupling the Start Menu’s file recommendations from File Explorer’s recent items and jump lists. This means that disabling recommendations in the Start Menu will no longer impact recent activity in other areas of Windows.
Enhanced Recommendations
To improve usability, the recommendation area will be rebranded as “Recent,” ensuring that newly installed applications remain visible while refining the selection of files displayed in that section. These enhancements are expected to be available to regular Windows 11 users on versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1 within approximately a month.
As these updates are anticipated, users are also looking forward to the promised performance and usability improvements associated with Windows K2. With these changes, Windows 11 is poised to deliver the customization options that many users have long desired.
